Warden Message

December 17, 2010

This Warden Message reminds the American community to remain vigilant when driving during non-daylight hours. On 12/17/2010, at approximately 0030, an assailant armed with an AK-47 and described as wearing a full-length coat attempted to rob a private Burundian citizen as he drove into a residential area on Rue du Cotton. As he attempted to evade the attack, the assailant shot at the vehicle. The vehicle ended up in the ditch to the side of the road and the assailant fled. This attack occurred near embassy residences, including the Chief of Mission's Residence. Subsequent investigation's revealed that five armed robberies have occurred in the surrounding area in the past month, starting as early as 2100. Given this information, the Embassy would encourage American citizens to consider the following safety precautions:

Limit all travel during non-daylight hours. Avoid travel after midnight if feasible.

Ensure that your vehicle windows are up and that your doors are locked at all times.

If you enroll, we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements. It will also help your friends and family get in touch with you in an emergency. You should remember to keep all of your information in STEP up to date. It is important during enrollment or updating of information to include your current phone number and current email address where you can be reached in case of an emergency.

The Embassy is located on Avenue des Etats-Unis. The phone number is (257) 22-20-70-00, fax (257) 22-22-29-26, and email BujumburaC@state.gov. For emergencies after regular business hours please call (257) 79-93-88-41.